Honda launches new 8-seater variant for Odyssey

In response to the evolving needs of the market, Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) launched the new 8-seater Odyssey EX. The new variant not only seats more people, it also comes with a refreshed look and a few more neat features.

The outside of this minivan retains its overall elegant design thanks to its “Solid Streamline” design concept, but it did receive new exterior upgrades such as a new front grille, redesigned front and rear bumpers, and 16-inch alloy wheels. It will also have dual sliding doors (power sliding for the passenger side) for ease of access.

The interior amenities of the new Odyssey EX include a multi-information display on the gauge cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen display audio head unit. Users can connect to it via Bluetooth, USB, and the HDMI port and can be managed by the driver through the steering wheel mounted controls.

Interior climate is controlled by the touchscreen automatic air conditioning system located below the audio head unit.

The previous 2nd row captain seat layout is replaced with the 60:40 split bench type seats while the 3rd row has a 3-way split reclining structure. It also allows each of its passengers to recline seats according to their preference. Both rows can be folded flat under the floor for more cargo room.

Under the hood, the same Earth Dreams Technology 2.4 L DOHC i-VTEC engine from the earlier EX-V Navi variant that can produce 175 hp and 226 Nm of torque. It’s then mated to the Earth Dreams Technology Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which can be controlled by paddle shifters.

Among its new features is the Idle-Stop system which automatically turns off the engine when the vehicle stops and restarts once the brake pedal is released. The interior temperature remains cool while the Idle-Stop is activated thanks to its cold-storage evaporator. The Odyssey EX also comes with the Eco Assist System which consists of the ECON mode and Eco-Coaching ambient light. All these help the minivan increase its fuel efficiency.

For safety, it’s equipped with emergency stop signal (ESS), anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), vehicle stability assist (VSA), and a multi-view reverse camera that’s displayed at the head unit. In addition, the Odyssey is fitted with driver, passenger, side, and side curtain airbags.

The new Odyssey EX has a sticker price of P1,948,000. It is available in 4 colors: Modern Steel Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Super Platinum Metallic, and for an additional P20,000 owners can get it in White Orchid Pearl.

For more information about the new Honda Odyssey, visit the AutoDeal Car Guide.